Private and Public Examinations

Melbourne Criminal Lawyers with expertise in Private and Public Examinations.

Royal Commission and Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) Lawyers.

WHEN EVERY ANSWER MATTERS.

GET LEGAL GUIDANCE EARLY.

If you have been summoned to give evidence in a private or public examination, it is critical to obtain urgent legal advice. These proceedings involve compulsory questioning under oath, and your answers may have serious legal consequences, including potential criminal liability.

At Balot Reilly Criminal Lawyers, our experienced Melbourne criminal defence lawyers provide expert representation to individuals required to give evidence in:

  • Royal Commissions
  • Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) examinations
  • Court-ordered examinations
  • Private examinations by the Office of the Chief Examiner
  • Public inquiries and compulsory hearings

We act to protect your rights, prevent self-incrimination, and guide you safely through the examination process.

Melbourne Criminal Lawyers with expertise in Private and Public Examinations

Get clear advice with a strong defence. Call Us 24/7

Speak directly with Balot Reilly Criminal Lawyers Today

Frequently Asked Questions About Private and Public Examinations in Australia

Private and public examinations are compulsory legal processes where a person is required to:

  • attend a hearing
  • give evidence under oath
  • produce documents

These examinations are often conducted as part of serious investigations into criminal activity, corruption, or matters of public importance.

Unlike standard police interviews, these examinations often involve coercive powers, meaning:

  • you may be legally required to answer questions
  • you may not be able to rely on the right to silence in the usual way

Because of these risks, legal representation is essential.

  • Royal commissions
  • Public inquiries 
  • Private examinations
  • Commissioner and inspector proceedings
  • Preparation and briefing 
  • Post-examination advice 

Royal Commissions are formal investigations into matters of significant public importance, often involving:

  • government conduct
  • institutional failures
  • systemic issues affecting the public

Royal Commissions have broad coercive powers, including the ability to:

  • summon witnesses to give evidence
  • compel the production of documents
  • require answers under oath

Failure to comply with a Royal Commission direction may result in serious criminal penalties.

Our lawyers assist clients by:

  • advising on rights and obligations before giving evidence
  • protecting against self-incrimination
  • preparing clients for questioning
  • ensuring compliance while minimising legal risk

We also assist individuals who wish to raise concerns and present evidence during Royal Commission proceedings.

The Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) conducts investigations into serious and organised crime in Australia.

ACIC examinations are:

  • conducted in private
  • subject to strict secrecy provisions
  • supported by coercive questioning powers

During an ACIC examination:

  • you may be compelled to answer questions under oath
  • you may be required to produce documents
  • you generally cannot refuse to answer on the basis of self-incrimination

This makes ACIC examinations significantly different from police interviews.

Our criminal lawyers:

  • provide strategic legal advice before and during examinations
  • prepare you for questioning
  • ensure your answers do not expose you to unnecessary legal risk
  • guide you through this high-pressure and complex process

Private and public examinations carry significant legal risks, including:

  • exposure to criminal investigation or prosecution
  • being charged with providing false or misleading evidence
  • penalties for non-compliance with summons or directions

In some cases, individuals have faced imprisonment for misleading answers or failing to comply.

Early legal advice can:

  • protect you from self-incrimination
  • ensure compliance with legal obligations
  • help you respond accurately and safely
  • minimise the risk of future prosecution

Our Melbourne criminal defence lawyers provide comprehensive support, including:

  • urgent legal advice upon receiving a summons or notice
  • preparation for private and public examinations
  • advice on self-incrimination and legal protections
  • representation during hearings
  • strategic guidance throughout the investigation

We understand that these processes are often stressful, complex and intimidating, and we are committed to protecting your rights at every stage.

OUR APPROACH

We assess the evidence, identify available defences, and develop a clear strategy to minimise penalties or avoid conviction where possible.

✔️ We will carefully listen to your story & support you

✔️ We will offer defense strategies to help you

✔️ We will advise you in plain-language, no legal jargon

✔️ We will minimise penalties and damage to your life where possible

✔️ We will offer the best legal representation in court

What You Can Expect

✔️ Clear, practical legal advice from experienced criminal defence lawyers

✔️ Strong representation in Melbourne courts from the outset

✔️ Strategic guidance tailored to your specific circumstances

✔️ Transparent communication at every stage of your matter

✔️ Proactive defence focused on minimising penalties and protecting your record